Barcelona is a feast for the eyes. As we finally emerged from the Metro on the way from the airport to our apartment, we all drew a breath, partially to gain some much-needed oxygen, but mainly in admiration of the scene before us. It was part magical, part medieval, if there is such an architectural style in existence.
Upon our arrival at our apartment, we discovered that we could actually have come overground in one train, rather than catching three metros. Damn. All the same, that first unexpected, breathtaking view of Barcelona was worth the pain. The buildings seemed to have grown out of the earth, yet somehow they looked just right for a modern city as well – like Bilbo’s hobbit hole with a contemporary, urban flavour, including bright colours, well proportioned curves, narrow shutters and wrought iron balconies.
There are pockets of Barcelona that were designed entirely by Gaudi, but the other architecture is also eye-catching and cohesive. I imagine a group of architects who agreed on a design brief before they began their work: “Let’s make something that’s not just functional but heart-rendingly beautiful. People should catch their breath when they see it. They should experience a sense of wonder – or at the very least some moments of pure joy.”
If these were indeed their aims, then they have achieved them.
We were enchanted as we walked through Barcelona in the crisp early morning sunlight. It was hard not to take photos every few metres.
Shannon and Courtney had arrived in the dead of night, drained and weary from that foul plane flight. After a single night’s sleep, however, they seemed to have completely recovered. Their eyes were bright in the morning sunshine and their conversation animated. It was a sheer pleasure to listen to their young voices, to hear snatches of Courtney’s music and to observe their enthusiasm for the adventure that lay ahead. They are the perfect addition to our party, for Barcelona, in contrast to Dresden, is teeming with young people – beautiful, active, chic and smart. Just like our two young companions, who, like Barcelona, are a joy to behold.
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| Linda and Shannon at the beach | Boats, blue skies and the sea |
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| Is it a home or a castle? | Courtney looks forward to seeing her goddess |
Final Notes
Details of our Trip from Germany to Spain: No identity check at any stage – we never showed our passports. Davey had to have an interview at the Post Office and show both his passport and his licence to get a SIM card, but he could get on an aeroplane with no proof of identity. Gut-wrenching rush to make our connecting flight. Reached the gate with a minute to spare.
Apartment: Spacious and bright, red accents, not far from La Pedrera. Davey’s find.
Steps Today: 18,864
Obvious Differences from Germany: More children, especially toddlers, in every public place we visited; more public displays of affection; more trees; better pillows; fewer bakeries, fewer vegetable and salad offerings
One Similarity with Germany: In Courtney’s words: “The shops aren’t open on Sunday? What? Are you serious? You’re kidding, right?”